The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has expanded its hymnbook, "Hymns—For Home and Church," with 11 new songs available in English, Spanish, Portuguese, and French. These additions will be accessible on the online Music Library, Gospel Library, and Sacred Music app within the next day.
The newly added hymns include: “Look unto Christ,” “Oh, How Great Is Our Joy,” “I'm a Pioneer Too,” “As I Keep the Sabbath Day,” “Read the Book of Mormon and Pray,” “I'm Gonna Live So God Can Use Me,” “The Lord's My Shepherd,” “Because,” “His Voice as the Sound,” “O Lord, Who Gave Thy Life for Me,” and “Still, Still, Still.” This brings the total number of songs in the collection to 48.
Elder Dale G. Renlund of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles stated: "It’s our hope that everyone will realize that this is a new day...and we’re hopeful that everyone thoroughly enjoys these new hymns."
One notable hymn is "His Voice as the Sound," previously performed by the Tabernacle Choir at several events. Another addition is "I’m Gonna Live So God Can Use Me," an African American spiritual style song featured in a 2022 broadcast. The hymn "Oh, How Great Is Our Joy," originally written in Spanish by a Mexican missionary, will now be available in all languages.
Elder Renlund encouraged members to embrace these hymns: "Music is a language of the Spirit and can deepen your love and appreciation for God." He also urged families and congregations globally to begin using these hymns immediately.
Members have expressed positive experiences with these new hymns. Richard Brito from Santo Domingo mentioned feeling the Spirit through them. Creed Mendenhall from Utah noted they help strengthen his testimony without speaking publicly. Lilibeth Angomas found comfort during personal trials through one hymn's message.
Bishop Jossuelomar Rivera from Puerto Rico observed how even children easily learn and sing these hymns. His daughter frequently sings them at home, illustrating their impact on family worship.
While some initially struggled to adapt to the new music, many have integrated it into daily life. Berniz De los Santos noted increased use among church members for personal study and listening at home or on-the-go.
Sheila Ostler emphasized confidence in singing out loud to learn them better: "We might as well just sing them over and over until we get them." Teresa Alcantara encouraged all members to engage with this inspiring music.